The causes of lupus are not fully known. It’s believed that there is a genetic component and that the condition can also arise based on hormonal and environmental factors. Lupus is not contagious and cannot be caused by contact with another person.
Lupus affects both adults and children, but children often experience more severe symptoms. In children, lupus most commonly affects the skin, joints, and major internal organs like the kidneys, liver, brain, heart, or lungs. People diagnosed in childhood also are more likely to have higher rates of organ damage than people diagnosed as adults.
Symptoms for lupus can vary widely and may come and go over time. Common symptoms include:
Hair loss is a common symptom of lupus and can be especially distressing for children and families. Medical research shows that hair loss occurs in more than half of individuals with lupus at some point during the disease.
Hair loss may be non-scarring and temporary, meaning regrowth is possible when disease activity is controlled, though some forms of lupus-related hair loss can cause permanent hair loss if scarring occurs.
Pediatric lupus is typically diagnosed and managed by a pediatric rheumatologist. Diagnosis may include fluid tests, imaging studies, and evaluation of symptoms over time.
While there is no cure for lupus, treatment can help control symptoms, reduce inflammation, and protect organs. With appropriate medical care, many children with lupus are able to lead active and fulfilling lives.
Hair loss related to lupus can affect a child’s self-esteem and emotional well-being. Support from friends and family plays a important role in helping children feel confident and supported during treatment.
A wig can allow a child diagnosed with lupus to keep his or her condition private when the child chooses. It can help kids feel more comfortable and confident in participating in activities they may previously have avoided, such as swimming, windy conditions or even doctor visits.
At Wigs For Kids, we recognize that medical hair loss is more than a physical change—it is an emotional experience for children and families navigating illness
Wigs For Kids provides lupus wigs for children at no charge. Our hairpieces are all specially created to fit each individual child’s scalp and are made of donated human hair. Lupus hairpieces from Wigs For Kids are always provided free of charge to recipients. We simply want to help children live their lives and look themselves. If you’d like to apply to receive a wig for your child, you can do so here. Or, consider donating your hair to help a child in need.
After a lupus diagnosis led to hair loss, 14-year-old Desiree faced the emotional challenges of feeling different and losing confidence. With the help of Wigs For Kids and compassionate Certified Service Provider Britney Jones, Desiree received a free hairpiece that helped her feel like herself again. Her journey highlights the power of support, personalized care, and community in restoring confidence, dignity, and joy to children experiencing hair loss. Read More.
After rapidly losing all of her hair within just a few weeks due to lupus, 13-year-old Sophie faced a difficult and highly visible change with incredible strength. With support from Wigs For Kids and her dedicated stylist, she received a no-cost hairpiece that restored her confidence and allowed her to express her personal style. Sophie’s story is a powerful reminder of resilience, self-acceptance, and the impact of compassionate care—showing that she truly shines with and without hair. Read More.
